The Best Things To Do On Comino Island, Malta(+ One-Day Itinerary)

Looking for the best things to do on Comino Island? This tiny, car-free island between Malta and Gozo is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, hidden coves, scenic hiking trails, and some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean.

I first visited Comino long before the Blue Lagoon became a social media hotspot. The island felt raw and untouched, as if it were a well-kept secret.

Over the years, it has become more popular, especially in the summer, but the good news is that you can still find those peaceful corners if you know where to go.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do on Comino Island, how to get there, when to visit, and some local tips that will help you make the most of your time, whether you’re here for a quick day trip or a full day of hiking, swimming, and quiet exploration.

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Facts About Comino Island

Comino, the smallest sibling in the Maltese archipelago after Malta and Gozo, is a serene and rugged island covering just 3.5 km² — about 2 km long and 1.5 km wide.

Today, only four people officially live on the island, and there are no towns or villages. A priest and a police officer commute daily by boat from Gozo, maintaining spiritual and civic order on this nearly deserted land.

There are no paved roads, and aside from a couple of service vehicles and 4x4s, Comino is entirely car-free. Its remote and untouched feel is one of its biggest charms.

The island’s name, Kemmuna, comes from the cumin plant, which once grew wild here. Though cumin has vanished, Comino remains rich in flora and fauna and is now officially a protected nature reserve and bird sanctuary, especially during migration seasons.

In Roman times, Comino was used as a farming community. During the Middle Ages, it was nearly abandoned due to pirate raids. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Knights of St. John used Comino as a hunting ground and a place of exile for misbehaving members of their order. 

Later, it served strategic roles in military communications and disease control, with an isolation hospital built for cholera and plague patients.

Some Maltese locals refer to Comino as the “Island of Silence” because of how quiet it gets in the off-season.

Today, only a few buildings remain: St. Mary’s Tower, a small chapel, a police station, an abandoned pig farm and the Comino Hotel, which hasn’t operated since autumn 2019.

There are no ATMs, pharmacies, or supermarkets, and mobile coverage is limited in some areas. But that’s exactly what makes Comino special. It’s a true digital detox destination in the heart of the Mediterranean.

How to Get to Comino Island

Unlike its sister island, Gozo, you cannot take a rental car to Comino and truthfully, you won’t need one. The only way to reach Comino is by boat, and getting there is part of the adventure. Whether you’re traveling from Malta or Gozo, here are the best options for getting to Comino Island.

Comino Ferries

One of the most popular and affordable ways to reach Comino is via Comino Ferries, which runs regular services between Malta and the Blue Lagoon.

Round-trip fare: €15

Departure points: Marfa and Cirkewwa, Malta

Schedule to Comino: Every 30 minutes from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Duration: About 25 minutes

Return from Comino: Every hour from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with additional boats at 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

On the way back, the ferry makes a scenic stop at the Comino Caves, which is a lovely bonus.

👉 Check their official  webpage for the latest timetable and seasonal updates.

Comino Ferry Service 

Another option is the Comino Ferry Service, operating between Cirkewwa (Malta) and the Blue Lagoon (Comino).

Frequency: Every 30 minutes

Operating hours: From 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Departure point: Cirkewwa, Malta

Destination: Blue Lagoon, Comino

👉 Visit their webpage for up-to-date information and booking.

Comino Boat Tours (Best for Tourists Without a Car)

If you’re based in Sliema, St. Julian’s, or Bugibba and don’t have a car, joining a Comino boat tour is the easiest and most relaxing option. These full-day tours typically include:

-3 hours at the Blue Lagoon

-A stop at either Crystal Lagoon or San Niklaw Bay for swimming (depending on wind direction)

-A scenic ride past the Comino Caves and limestone cliffs on the return journey

It’s a great way to explore the coastline and soak in Malta’s striking beauty from the water — perfect for photography lovers or anyone short on time.

👉 BOOK YOUR FULL DAY BOAT TOUR ON COMINO ISLAND

Most boats drop visitors off right at the Blue Lagoon, Comino’s busiest and most iconic spot. The moment you step off the boat, you’ll likely be greeted by a lively crowd, especially if you’re visiting in summer or on a weekend.

Despite its small size, Comino is well-equipped for a day trip. You really don’t need to bring much with you.

Essentials & Souvenirs

You’ll find small kiosks and stalls selling everything from:

• Snorkeling gear and water shoes
• Inflatable flamingos and floaties
• Swimsuits, sunscreen, and hats
• Local handicrafts and souvenirs

So, if you forget something, don’t worry. You can easily pick it up on the island.

Food & Drinks

Food trucks and beach stalls offer a surprisingly decent variety of quick meals and snacks. You can grab:

• Fried calamari, burgers, wraps, and fries
• Fresh fruit salads and ice cream
• Cold drinks, cocktails, and beer

Tip: Prices can be a bit higher than on the mainland, but the food quality is generally good considering the remote location.

Facilities & Amenities

While Comino has no roads or public transport, it does offer some basic comforts:

• Public toilets near the Blue Lagoon
• Lockers for rent in different sizes
• Sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire
• Lifeguards on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

There’s also a police station, a small chapel, and the abandoned Comino Hotel, which closed in 2019 and adds a slightly eerie charm to the landscape.

Water Activities

Looking for fun things to do on Comino Island beyond swimming? You’re in luck:

• Parasailing offers a thrilling view of the coastline
• Banana boat rides are great for families or groups
• Snorkeling and diving tours are available through tour operators

Best Time to Visit Comino

Map of the Best Places to Visit on Comino Island

Underneath, you’ll find a customized map that includes all the locations you might want to check out on Comino Island. Just open up this article on your phone and click on the frame in the upper right corner of this map. The Google Maps app will open, and you can check all the details. I hope it helps!

The Best Things to Do on Comino Island in One Day

Our route: Blue Lagoon → Cominotto → Crystal Lagoon → Santa Marija Caves → St. Mary’s Tower → St. Mary’s Bay → San Niklaw Bay

Total walking time: around 1.5–2 hours (excluding swimming and sightseeing).

Allow a full day if you plan to swim, snorkel, and enjoy several stops along the way.

Blue Lagoon – Comino’s Most Famous Attraction

No visit to Comino is complete without seeing the Blue Lagoon. Nestled between Comino and the tiny islet of Cominotto, this stunning bay is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water, which looks almost too vibrant to be real.

The lagoon is shallow, calm, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in the warm Mediterranean Sea. It’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Malta and the highlight of any day trip to Comino.

That said, the Blue Lagoon is no hidden gem. During the summer months, especially from June to September, hundreds of visitors arrive every day on ferries and boat tours from Malta and Gozo. By late morning, the small beach is usually packed, and much of the shoreline is covered with sunbeds.

If you can’t find a spot on the sand, don’t worry. Many people spread out on the surrounding limestone rocks or spend most of their time in the water, where the views are just as spectacular.

My tip: Arrive with one of the first ferries of the day or stay until late afternoon. The lagoon is much quieter outside the busiest hours, and you’ll have a much better chance to enjoy its incredible colors before or after the crowds arrive.

Despite its popularity, the Blue Lagoon absolutely deserves its reputation. The water really is as beautiful as you’ve seen in the photos, making it one of the top things to do on Comino Island.

Cominotto Island – A Peaceful Escape Across the Blue Lagoon

If the crowds at the Blue Lagoon become too much, head over to Cominotto, the tiny islet just across the water. Surprisingly, many visitors never make the short crossing, making it one of the quietest places to enjoy Comino’s crystal-clear sea.

The swim from the Blue Lagoon is short and usually takes just a few minutes. As long as the sea is calm and you’re a confident swimmer, it’s an easy and rewarding way to escape the busiest part of the island.

Once you reach Cominotto, you’ll find a small sandy beach, crystal-clear water, and a completely different atmosphere. Instead of tour boats and music, you’ll be surrounded by the sound of the waves and beautiful views back toward Comino and the Blue Lagoon.

If you don’t feel like swimming, a small shuttle boat also runs between the Blue Lagoon and Cominotto throughout the day for a small fee.

I highly recommend making the short trip if you have the time. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience a quieter side of Comino and was one of our favorite spots on the island.

Explore the Island’s Rugged Landscape

If beaches aren’t your thing or you’ve had your fill of sunbathing, one of the most underrated things to do on Comino Island is simply to explore its wild, rugged terrain. Comino may be small, but it’s packed with hidden trails, dramatic cliffside paths, and untouched wilderness.

The main circular route around the island is roughly 7 kilometers long and offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean, secluded bays, and even the occasional abandoned structure. As you walk, you might get the surreal feeling of being completely alone on a deserted island.

What will you discover along the way? Dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise seas. Abandoned buildings that whisper stories of the past. Native flora, wild herbs, and the occasional shy lizard. Complete silence, broken only by the sound of wind and waves. It’s peaceful and remote. It’s a side of Comino most people skip. And that’s exactly why you should make time for it.

If you visit during the summer months, come prepared. The island offers little to no shade, and the heat can be intense. Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear sun protection, and bring sturdy walking shoes. The snack bars near the Blue Lagoon are your only nearby refreshment stops.

Crystal Lagoon – A Hidden Gem on Comino

While most visitors head straight for the famous Blue Lagoon, just a 7-minute walk away lies another spectacular swimming spot: Crystal Lagoon.

Surrounded by rugged limestone cliffs, this secluded bay is known for its incredibly clear, deep-blue water. It’s a favorite among snorkelers, divers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds for a while.

Unlike the Blue Lagoon, there isn’t a sandy beach here. Instead, you’ll find rocky ledges where you can relax before jumping into the crystal-clear water. The underwater visibility is excellent, making it one of the best places on Comino for snorkeling and diving.

Getting into the water requires climbing down a fairly steep rocky path, so it’s not the easiest spot to access. However, if you don’t mind a little adventure, you’ll be rewarded with one of the island’s most beautiful swimming locations.

If you’d rather avoid the climb, many boat tours from Malta and Gozo also stop at Crystal Lagoon, giving you the chance to swim or snorkel directly from the boat.

The Abandoned Hospital

On the walk to St. Mary’s Tower, you’ll pass one of Comino’s most intriguing landmarks: the abandoned hospital.

Built in the early 20th century, it was originally used as a quarantine hospital for patients with infectious diseases such as cholera and plague. During World War I, it treated wounded soldiers, and in later years, it even served as a small school for the island’s children.

Although you can’t enter the building, it’s an interesting stop that offers a glimpse into Comino’s surprisingly rich history. The weathered stone walls and quiet surroundings make it easy to imagine what life on the island was once like.

St. Mary’s Tower

Sitting on one of the highest points on Comino, St. Mary’s Tower rewards visitors with some of the best panoramic views on the island. The uphill walk from the Blue Lagoon takes around 15 minutes, but it’s well worth the effort.

Built in 1618 by the Knights of St. John, the tower was designed to protect the Maltese Islands from pirate attacks and to communicate with the other coastal watchtowers around Malta and Gozo.

Over the centuries, it served several purposes, including a prison, a military post, and even a hospital during wartime. After an extensive restoration in the early 2000s, it once again became one of Comino’s most recognizable landmarks.

If you’re visiting between April and October, you may also be able to explore the small museum inside. It is usually open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and if the Knight’s flag is flying, admission is free.

Even if you don’t go inside, the walk up to the tower is worth it for the spectacular views over Comino, Malta, Gozo, and the surrounding turquoise sea.

St. Mary’s Gun Battery

Just a few minutes from St. Mary’s Tower, you’ll find St. Mary’s Gun Battery, another reminder of Comino’s military past. Built in 1715, this semi-circular coastal battery was designed to defend the channel between Comino and Malta.

It is one of only three surviving coastal batteries in the Maltese Islands and was carefully restored in 1997 after being abandoned for more than two centuries.

Today, you can freely walk around the battery while enjoying beautiful coastal views. Even if you’re not particularly interested in history, it’s worth stopping here as it’s only a short detour from the main trail.

Chapel of Our Lady’s Return From Egypt

Near St. Mary’s Bay stands the small Chapel of Our Lady’s Return from Egypt, originally built in 1618 alongside St. Mary’s Tower. Although modest in size, it remains an important landmark and a reminder that Comino was once home to a small permanent community.

Surrounded by peaceful countryside, it’s a lovely stop if you’re exploring this quieter side of the island.

St. Mary’s Bay

If the Blue Lagoon feels too crowded, head to St. Mary’s Bay, one of the quietest beaches on Comino. Located about 20 minutes on foot from the Blue Lagoon, this small sandy beach is perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

The water is just as clear as elsewhere on the island, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling without the crowds. During our visit, it felt worlds away from the busy Blue Lagoon.

You’ll also find Comino’s small police station nearby, along with the island’s campsite, making this one of the few areas with any permanent facilities.

Santa Marija Caves

One of the most beautiful places to see around Comino is the Santa Marija Caves. Hidden beneath dramatic limestone cliffs, these sea caves are famous for their crystal-clear water, striking rock formations, and the incredible shades of blue created by the sunlight.

The caves can only be reached by boat, so you’ll need to join a boat tour or hire a private boat from Malta or Gozo. Many tours that visit the Blue Lagoon also make a short stop here, giving you the chance to admire the caves or swim in the surrounding waters.

Thanks to the excellent underwater visibility, Santa Marija Caves are also one of the best snorkeling and diving spots around Comino. Keep in mind that boat visits depend on sea conditions and may be cancelled if the water is too rough.

San Niklaw Bay

If you’re looking for one of the quietest beaches on Comino, make your way to San Niklaw Bay. Hidden away from the crowds, this small bay offers calm, crystal-clear water and a much more peaceful atmosphere than the busy Blue Lagoon.

The bay was once home to the Comino Hotel, whose private beaches were reserved for hotel guests. Since the hotel closed in 2019, the area has become remarkably quiet, although parts of the former hotel complex remain fenced off.

A small path leads down to the beach, where you’ll often find far fewer visitors than at the island’s more famous swimming spots. If you’re after a relaxing swim or simply want to enjoy Comino without the crowds, San Niklaw Bay is well worth the short detour.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Comino

Before visiting Comino, I thought it would simply be a quick stop to see the famous Blue Lagoon. Instead, it turned out to be one of my favorite days in Malta.

Yes, the Blue Lagoon is every bit as beautiful as you’ve probably seen in the photos, but for me, the real charm of Comino was discovering everything beyond it. Walking the quiet trails, finding hidden bays, and standing on the cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea made me appreciate just how much more this tiny island has to offer.

If you have the time, don’t rush back on the first ferry. Spend a few extra hours exploring beyond the Blue Lagoon, and you’ll discover a much quieter side of Comino that many visitors never get to experience.

Looking back, that’s what I remember most—not the crowds, but the peaceful corners, the crystal-clear water, and the feeling of having one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful islands almost to ourselves.

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